Washington, D.C. Interim Encourages and Inspires Students

Thursday, 03 February 2011

Seven students, accompanied by Charles Emmerich, professor of political science, spent the last portion of the two-week Interim in Washington, D.C., attending the 2011 Christian Student Leadership Conference.

The Christian Student Leadership Conference, sponsored by the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), is designed to give college students the opportunity to meet with leaders in government and learn how those leaders participate in politics while incorporating their faith, according to NAE’s website. The theme for this year’s conferences was “From Generation to Generation” and focused on issues the United States faces today and will continue to face in the future.

While in D.C. from January 17-21, the students spent most of their time attending briefings given by members of Congress, a Supreme Court justice, presidential staff members, and leaders of public policy firms. Sightseeing and a tour of the U.S. Capitol building guaranteed a packed schedule for the group.

Students made note of how hearing political officials talk about their faith in politics has changed their thinking and inspired them as they continue in their endeavors at Trinity.

“I feel like I have a changed view of politics,” said Kim VanSpronsen, ’13 of Escalon, California. “This trip has encouraged me that I am in the right area of study. I am even more willing to strive to bring Christian values to the area of political science.”

For students pursuing careers in politics or law, the trip to Washington, D.C. provided extra motivation.

“The speakers and events encouraged and inspired me to pursue a career in politics, and this Interim made me think deeply about where I would go after I graduate from Trinity,” said Kelsey Barnett ’12 of Kenosha, Wisconsin.